When we return from Thanksgiving break next week there’s bound to be many things on our mind. Whether we’re thinking about the upcoming Dead Week, finishing those last minute projects, starting to gear up for finals or maybe even thinking towards the Hike or graduation — there’s an event taking place just a few hours north of Raleigh that will have worldwide implications.

For two days starting on Nov. 25, leaders from Israel, Palestine and other nations will gather in Annapolis, Md. to resume talks that could pave the way for peace to finally be reached in the Middle East in terms of Israel and Palestine. Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will come together in the city which is home to the U.S. Naval Academy to attempt to jump start a sustainable solution for peace.

Realizing the struggle for peace in this area of the world has been ongoing for centuries. There could be a small window of hope as rational minds are now sitting at the table on both sides.

But what exactly is needed for peace to occur?

After visiting the region this summer and talking with people on both sides of the political divide, I’ve come to realize a strong majority of people in the region want to live amongst one another in peace — all that is needed is compromise from both parties.

Talking with the Palestinian people of the West Bank, I saw how much they longed to be able to be fully recognized and treated as a country — something which is needed from Israel to begin peaceful relations with their neighbor. Road blocks no longer can be used as a way to imprison the Palestinian people — border crossing between the two countries is legitimate, but crossings must be free flowing with valid security checks on both sides.

The security of Israel and its people is a must as terrorist violence has rocked this nation for decades. Palestinians must be more proactive in dealing with the radical terrorist groups perpetuating attacks against Israelis. Once Israel feels it can trust its Palestinian friends to take care of their own house in terms of security, warmer relations will grow.

These are two issues that will be discussed next week in Annapolis; however, there are many more areas in which the Israelis and Palestinians must come to a consensus on when talking about achieving peace.

For peace to happen between Israel and Palestine both parties have to give and take — this conference can not be just be one sided — especially when the discussion turns to Jerusalem. For the sake of the people of Palestine and Israel their leaders must compromise and come up with tangible solutions to produce sustainable peace.

So, next week when you get back in your routine here at school keep up-to-date on what’s taking place in Annapolis. You may see the beginning of peace in the Middle East take hold.

People want peace — it’s up to the leaders to find a way to achieve the goals and desires of the people. Hopefully one day in the near future we will see Israelis and Palestinians permanently partner in peace.

What do you think of the prospects of peace in the Middle East coming closer to reality? E-mail [email protected].